Korea D-9 Trade Visa Guide (2026)
The D-9 is Korea's trade visa — for people running import/export businesses, and for the specialists who install exported machinery or supervise industrial facility work. The trader route runs on a points system and asks for real business infrastructure: a registered trade business, premises, and a trade number. This page explains the sub-types, the points, and why your extension depends on actually trading — honestly, with the official sources that decide each case.
Who the D-9 visa is for
The D-9 (trade management) covers several distinct roles under one visa family. The sub-types below are widely reported — treat them as orientation, since immigration sets the exact eligibility.
1. Traders (D-9-1)
2. Industrial equipment specialists (D-9-2)
3. Facility / shipbuilding supervisors (D-9-3)
The D-9-1 points system (2026)
The trader route is widely reported to use a points evaluation. The figures below are commonly cited, but the ones immigration applies are what matter — these change, so verify before applying.
| Requirement | Reported 2026 threshold |
|---|---|
| Total score | At least 60 points (of a 160-point scale) |
| Required categories | At least 10 points in mandatory items |
| Language (some applicants) | Reported as TOPIK Level 3 or higher in certain cases |
Points categories, the language rule, and weights are set officially and adjusted periodically. Confirm the current scoring on HiKorea or by calling 1345 — do not assume.
Business infrastructure you usually need
For the D-9-1 trader route, applicants commonly need to show that the business is real, not on paper. Reported requirements include a business (trade) registration certificate, independent business premises under a lease in your name, and a trade number issued by the relevant trade body (commonly the Korea International Trade Association). The exact documents depend on your sub-type and are set officially — confirm the current list before applying.
Why extensions depend on a trade record
The D-9 is built around actual trade activity, so extension is generally tied to a genuine trade record — you typically must show real trade performance to renew, and extension standards can differ based on factors such as national employment and trade volume. A registered company with no trading history can struggle to extend. If you stay over 90 days, you must also register and obtain a Residence Card (ARC). Confirm the current extension criteria on HiKorea.
Related business routes
If your goal is corporate investment rather than trading, the D-8 business investor visa may fit better. If you are still preparing a business or job-seeking, the D-10 covers startup preparation. Moving between these usually requires a change of visa status — confirm with immigration.
Frequently asked questions
What is the D-9 visa for?
Running trade/import-export business (D-9-1) plus equipment installation (D-9-2) and shipbuilding/facility supervision (D-9-3). Confirm the correct sub-type for your work officially.
How does the D-9-1 points system work?
Reported as needing at least 60 of 160 points with at least 10 in required categories, and a TOPIK 3 language rule for some applicants. Scoring is set officially and changes — verify on HiKorea.
Do I need a business registration?
Generally yes for the trader route — a trade business registration, premises under a lease in your name, and a trade number from the relevant trade body. Confirm the current list officially.
Can I extend a D-9 visa?
Yes, but extension is generally tied to a genuine trade record, and standards can vary by trade volume and employment factors. Confirm criteria on HiKorea.
What are D-9-2 and D-9-3?
D-9-2 is for installing/maintaining imported industrial machinery; D-9-3 is for building and supervising shipbuilding/industrial facilities. Both differ from the D-9-1 trader route.